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Dele Alli

Dele Alli is an English professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Dele Alli is an English professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder. He rose through the academy of Milton Keynes Dons, became a breakout star at Tottenham Hotspur, and has also played for Everton, Beşiktaş, and Como. He has represented England at senior international level and was widely recognized for his early Premier League performances.

Early life and youth career

Alli was born in Milton Keynes and joined the youth system of Milton Keynes Dons at age 11. He broke into the first team during the 2012–13 season and quickly became one of the club's most notable young players.

Tottenham Hotspur breakthrough

He moved to Tottenham Hotspur in 2015 after establishing himself at MK Dons. He became one of the Premier League's standout attacking midfielders during his first seasons, earning the PFA Young Player of the Year award. His performances helped him earn a place in the England national team.

Later club career

After leaving Tottenham, Alli joined Everton and later spent time on loan at Beşiktaş. He subsequently joined Como, continuing his career in Italy. His later career has been marked by injuries, loan moves, and reduced playing time.

International career

Alli made his senior England debut in 2015 and was part of the squad for Euro 2016 and 2018 World Cup qualification. He is listed as a former England international by several sources.

Key facts

  • Born in Milton Keynes, Alli joined Milton Keynes Dons' youth system at age 11 and broke into the first team in 2012–13.
  • He moved to Tottenham Hotspur in 2015 after establishing himself at MK Dons.
  • He earned major recognition in the Premier League, including PFA Young Player of the Year honours in his early Tottenham years.
  • Alli made his senior England debut in 2015 and featured at Euro 2016 and in 2018 World Cup qualification.
  • Premier League records list him with 194 appearances, 51 goals, and 34 assists.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Dele Alli?
Dele Alli is an English professional footballer known for playing as an attacking midfielder. He became prominent at Tottenham Hotspur after developing at Milton Keynes Dons.
What is Dele Alli's full name?
His full name is Bamidele Jermaine Alli.
When was Dele Alli born?
He was born on 11 April 1996.
Which clubs has Dele Alli played for?
He has played for Milton Keynes Dons, Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, Beşiktaş, and Como.
Has Dele Alli played for England?
Yes. He made his senior England debut in 2015 and represented the national team at major tournaments and in World Cup qualifying.
What position does Dele Alli play?
He is primarily an attacking midfielder.

References

  1. Premier League — https://www.premierleague.com/en/players/108823/dele-alli/overview
    Supports: Date of birth, nationality, position, appearances, goals, and assists.
  2. The Football Association — https://www.thefa.com/england/mens-seniors/squad/dele-alli
    Supports: England senior career, debut context, and international tournament involvement.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dele_Alli
    Supports: Birthplace, youth career, senior club progression, and general biographical timeline.
  4. Transfermarkt — https://www.transfermarkt.us/dele-alli/profil/spieler/207929
    Supports: Position, birthplace, height, nationality, and club history.